Take two

The hunt for parts for the Matchless girder fork has NOT been successful. Now I have found another lost cause instead.

Monark circa 1929 about 250 - 350cc. As rusty as the Douglas frame, if not worse.

There are some parts missing from the front forks (fastener for the handle bar) but nothing crucial that can not be replaced or made.

I did not get the correct petrol tank, that might be a problem. Now I am waiting for the Husqvarna oil tank I bought. Almost the same model as the ones used for the old Monarks. Hope it fits.

Girder Parts

For some time I have been planning for making the missing parts for the Girder Fork. First information I got from a "specialist" was that my fork is home made by some local black smith.

This I have believed for years but now I found an identical on some 1920:s Matchless motorcycles.

Searching the internet I also found a Parts List front fork.

I think I will have to make my own version of the upper yoke and linkage. With or without dampening.

Framed

The other day I found a frame that, with some modifications, maybe could be used for the 350cc.

A rusty old Douglas EW 350cc frame and a HVA wheel with clincher rim.

Since it was made for a boxer engine there is no belly, the lover frame tube will have to be replaced with a new one. The clearence is 33cm but the JAP engine need at least 44cm to fit

Made a rust solvent from Acetone and ATF oil. Hopefully the steering stem is still usable. 

The handle bar is no longer seized but the steering stem is...